The Philadelphia 76ers are entering the 2025-26 NBA season with high stakes, as the entire roster looks to recover from a disappointing previous year. Tyrese Maxey, preparing for his sixth NBA season, has been diligently working out this summer, including training sessions with LeBron James in Los Angeles, aiming to sharpen his skills and leadership for the challenging year ahead.
Maxey Reflects on Training alongside LeBron James
Tyrese Maxey spoke with ClutchPoints about the invaluable experience of working out with LeBron James, praising the veteran’s passion and dedication to the game despite being in his 23rd NBA season.
I think the biggest thing is for me and what I can take from him is just his passion for the game,
Maxey said.
…This man is going on like Year 23, and he was working out and talking and involved like it was probably Year five for him, you know what I’m saying? And that’s amazing to see. I think anybody who’s able to watch him, not just work out but play, should feel honored because it’s amazing.
Maxey also expressed his appreciation for LeBron’s leadership and communication during their sessions.
I don’t know how many times I’ve worked out with him now. I mean, that’s crazy to say, and I guess that’s how I know I am getting a little old. But yeah, it’s good work, man. It’s good work. He does a good job of talking, just being vocal, and helping. I’m very appreciative of him. He’s done a lot.
As the new season begins, Maxey is expected to play a major role in Coach Nick Nurse’s rotation, with hopes that his offseason preparation alongside LeBron will contribute to the Sixers’ resurgence.
Uncertainty Surrounds Joel Embiid’s Return from Injury
One significant challenge for the Sixers is the uncertain timeline regarding star center Joel Embiid’s return after a second meniscus surgery in April. Embiid has not yet resumed on-court activities as he continues his rehabilitation.
In a recent interview with ESPN’s Dotun Akintoye, Embiid emphasized the cautious approach toward his comeback and acknowledged the business nature of the sport.
We don’t have a timeline, Embiid said.
Hopefully, sooner rather than later…I don’t know how they (the Sixers) feel. The only thing I’d say is — this is a business. It’s all about the results…If I come back early enough and I’m still not myself, guess what? You’re not winning any games.
For the Sixers to contend within the Eastern Conference, having Embiid healthy and effective will be critical. Coach Nurse and the team are likely to prioritize Embiid’s long-term health over forcing an early return, focusing on having him available for the vital later stages of the season.
Embiid’s Rehabilitation Progress Remains Behind Schedule
According to a report by The Athletic’s Tony Jones, Embiid has not begun basketball drills on the court during his recovery period.
It’s been almost a year and a half since the knee injury he suffered at Golden State derailed him for most of the 2024-25 season, and Morey says Embiid is ‘on track’ to be healthy for training camp, the start of the preseason and the start of the regular season,
Jones wrote.
League sources tell The Athletic that Embiid still hasn’t returned to on-court basketball activities. That said, Morey and the front office remain optimistic that Embiid will be on the floor for the season opener.
With Embiid’s potential absence looming over the start of the season, much of the team‘s burden will again fall on Tyrese Maxey’s shoulders. Thanks to his rigorous offseason work, including sessions with LeBron James, Maxey appears ready to take on an expanded role and meet those expectations.
However, the Sixers’ aspirations to avoid another disappointing year depend heavily on consistent contributions not only from Maxey but also from key players like Embiid and Paul George. With no assurances yet about Embiid’s timely return or George’s availability, Philadelphia faces an uphill battle to make a deep playoff run.